Tae Kwon Do Tenets

What do the tenants actually mean and where should they be applied?

There are five tenants.

Courtesy (Ye Ui):
You should be polite and courteous showing consideration to all. Treat others how you would like to be treated yourself, make a point of being helpful. Demonstrating good manners will make those around you feel comfortable and help others to communicate with you more easily.

Integrity (Yom Chi):
Be honest not only to others but to yourself. Honesty to oneself or others can mean not trying to cheat when performing a task or duty and being of good honest principles.

Perseverance (In Nae):
Never give up, embrace the challenges ahead and be determined to continually improve. Consider elite athletes and martial artists, they have attained their level of excellence through not giving up. Who knows how far you can go with a ‘can-do’ attitude?

Self-Control (Guk Gi):
Control your body and mind through thought and actions. If you struggle to get something done correctly or properly then keep trying until you get it right. Do not necessarily judge yourself on another’s performance or achievements,but try to aspire to be the best you can possibly be.

Indomitable Spirit (Baekjul Boolgul):
Try to show courage when faced with adversity, try never to give up or give in. Sometimes courage means finding inner strength to continue when all else seems lost. It can also mean facing your fears or simply being determined to succeed.

Where the tenants are primarily designed for students and instructors practicing Tae Kwon Do, these should also be applied outside the training hall (Dojang) and applied in everyday situations. However in class you should focus on what your instructor is teaching, work hard when training, try your very best to get it right by practicing as much as you can. You should never misbehave in class as this demonstrates a poor attitude and sends the wrong message to other students, especially those new to Tae kwon do. You should also be willing to help those less able than you when needed, whether in class or outside.

Finally, always be respectful, remember to bow when entering or leaving the training hall (Dojang) and apply the tenants of Tae Kwon Do at all times.

Tae Kwon Do Oath

  • I shall observe the tenets of Tae Kwon Do.
  • I shall respect the instructors and seniors.
  • I shall never misuse Tae Kwon Do.
  • I shall be a champion of freedom and justice.
  • I shall strive to build a more peaceful world.

Student Pledge

  • To train both mind and body through Tae Kwon Do
  • To be a courageous opponent against untruth
  • To promote friendly relations among all
  • To be loyal to my school and Instructors
  • To obey the rules of the Tae Kwon Do school and the Tae Kwon Do Instructors